A worker’s compensation is a government-mandated type of insurance that offers monetary benefits to workers who have sustained injuries or gotten ill while at work. For this reason, the benefits are awarded to cover medical losses, lost wages, and other types of losses (as per the guideline of the state).
Therefore, to avoid all the hustle associated with reporting the issue or to improve your probability of being awarded for your total loss, you need the services of a worker’s compensation lawyer when reporting a work-related injury in Clarkdale, Georgia.
It is important to note that filing a worker’s compensation claim is not always smooth, and some employees may be denied full compensation. To avoid this, speak to us. We will help you, and guide you through the whole process.
At Workers Compensation Lawyer Coalition (WCL), we will help you start the claim process. All you have to do is give us a call, and our Clarkdale workers’ compensation lawyers will guide you and offer the best legal advice.
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How Long Do I Have in Reporting a Work-Related Injury in Clarkdale, Georgia?
According to worker’s compensation law in Georgia, an injured or ill employee is required to provide their employers with immediate notice of their injuries or sickness. In fact, the statute says that if an employee sustains a work-related injury, they must report the injury or sickness to the employer within 30 days.
The 30-day notice was included in the state’s worker’s compensation law to allow employers to investigate the injury claim, while reliable proof is still available.
However, it is wise to always report the injury as soon as possible (immediately). Doing this will make it easy for you as the employee to get the claim you need without delays.
Who Do I Have to Report a Workplace Injury To?
When an employee sustains a workplace injury or occupational disease, there are procedures that they must follow. These procedures are different for both the employee and the employer. As such, the injured employee must be compliant with the worker’s compensation laws. Remember, these requirements vary greatly from state to state, but the responsibilities are almost similar in all states.
Therefore, if an employee sustains work-related injuries, they must first report to the proper authority, and it should be in writing. As such, they should report to the foreman, manager, business owner, or team leader.
Employer Responsibilities After a Workplace Injury?
According to worker’s compensation laws, the employer has several responsibilities; in which they must fulfill after a work-related injury or disease. These responsibilities include offering first aid, transportation, and reporting the incident to the WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board). In fact, an employer’s responsibilities are governed by the state’s worker’s compensation laws.
In Georgia, an employer is expected to: –
• Report the accident or disease – The employer is expected to report the incident to the WSIB if the employee has to get health care services and if they must take time off work.
• Report the incident to relevant authorities – If the accident is construction work accident-related, then the employer must report the incident to an inspector at the Department of Labor and inform the joint health and safety committee.
• Continue Employment Contribution benefits – the employee is required to continue making contributions to regular employment benefits like life insurance, health insurance, and pension.
• Return the injured worker to their job – Under the Georgia workers compensation law, an employer is expected to retain the worker after they have recovered. Although there are some stipulations or guidelines regarding this.
Employee Responsibility After A Workplace Injury?
According to Georgia’s worker’s compensation law, employees have to fulfill few responsibilities for their worker’s comp benefits to be successful.
First of all, it is the responsibility of the employee to report any work-related injuries, illness, or accidents to their superiors. It is mandatory for this to be done at the time of the incident or accident, or immediately when you feel ill. Reporting the incident must be done in writing, which often involves filling or completing the Occupational Injury or Supervisors Report of Injury Form.
Secondly, they must seek medical treatment following their injuries. As such, the employee must make an appointment with an appropriate doctor and as directed.
The employee must keep all records showing the losses they have incurred so that they can be compensated. Remember, without proper records, an employee may be denied compensation.
Thirdly, employees who have suffered a workplace injury in Georgia are required to complete the WC-14 form and file it with Georgia’s state board of worker’s compensation. A copy of the same must be given to the employer.
Employees are warned that if they fail to follow these instructions, their worker’s comp claims cannot be reviews, and they will be denied. As such, the employee will not be entitled to receive worker’s compensation benefits and can be held responsible for any expenses incurred.
This is why it is wise to consult our work-related injury lawyer to help you file a worker’s compensation claim. Doing this will help avoid issues like this. Contact us today to know more about our services.
Contact Our Clarkdale Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Today
Worker’s compensation is a type of insurance coverage mandated by the government to protect employees financially. For this reason, it comes with its rules and regulations where all party members must abide by. For this reason, for an employee to receive workers comp benefits they must know the rules and regulations governing this insurance coverage.
Without following appropriate guidelines, an employee may be denied workers comp. Of course, various reasons for the denial will be cited. However, with the help of an experienced workers comp lawyer, you will avoid the chances of being denied the benefits. That is because they know all the steps and requirements needed.
This is why you should contact us if you have been injured while at work. We will not only help you with reporting a work-related injury in Clarkdale, GA but also guide you through the whole process.
We are here for you. At the Workers Compensation Lawyer Coalition, we value our clients, and we represent them aggressively. Call 470-518-5026 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free case review.
